More birthdays...

So my family's and husband's birthdays all fall in the October-January range, except for mine which is out in the middle of the summer. My mom's birthday was on Saturday and my sister's birthday is today. I don't like buying gifts for family members because nothing is good enough for them. Nothing seems adequate. Nothing says "I love you" enough to be worthy of giving. That's what I've been experiencing with familial gifts for a while now and haven't been able to remedy yet. So since no material item can voice a sufficient amount of affection and gratitude, I have decided to just use words to express my emotions. (And besides, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups don't fair well in the postal system. Sorry.)

Here are reasons why I am thankful for my mom:

1. She isn't afraid to say what needs to be said, even though it may not be something she wants to say. I hope that's not confusing. For example, she has stuck up for me at school to frustrating teachers or counselors. She has advised me of dangers to avoid even though I wasn't even close to harm at the time. On the day I was moving away from home, she gave me a treasure of wisdom even though she knew I didn't need that knowledge right then. I have thought about that day a lot since then and have used her advice multiple times. Everyone knows that 'Mom knows best,' but my mom knows to share the 'best' even in seemingly unapplicable times.

2. My mom knows how to say "I'm sorry." She can recognize when she has made a mistake and does everything in her power to fix it. She is humble and teachable and has always been a good example of a repentant person.

3. My mom is a good friend. She is so loyal and trustworthy. And she's got the most "blue" points

in the personality test I've ever seen. Blue people are loyal. And that describes my mom.

4. My mom is wise in her decisions and actions. She is money-wise and makes a conscious effort to not spend her money if it's not worth it. She takes the time to make educated decisions by researching, asking for advice, and making calls to those she trusts. Once she has the information, she makes a wise decision. She never acts spontaneously on crucial decisions and she is a good example of spending time now to reap rewards later.

Here are ways I love Jenna:

1. Jenna is hilarious. I've probably cried more than I've laughed with her, but my crying has been because we were dying of laughter.

2. My sister can beat up your sister. She's strong. Physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually.

3. She knows how to have a good time. Jenna is good at finding fun in everything and finding the good in everyone. We have always said that Jenna will grow up to be the 'fun' mom because she is laid back and creative and can find the joy in any activity.

4. Jenna is good with people. She is a great example of being friendly. She volunteered with Special Olympics and was in the special needs seminary class in school (no, not because she was enrolled in special needs :). But seriously, she makes friends easily and is kind to everyone.

5. Jenna doesn't back down. She strongly believes in truth and righteousness and she doesn't waver in her beliefs at all. She holds strong to the iron rod and is a good example of sticking up for what is right.

We love you guys! Happy birthdays!!